Allergens, such as pollen, can collect in your hair whenever you step outside. And because your hair is right next to your face (and nose and mouth and eyes), the buildup of those allergens can cause annoying allergy symptoms to become even worse. And if you don’t get that pollen out before you climb into bed at day’s end? It’s now also all over your sheets and pillowcase where it will stay put all week, exacerbating your symptoms and causing you to wake up congested.
Since cutting your hair off each time spring rolls around may not be feasible (or desirable) to some, we researched other strategies to help lessen the risk and impact of getting spring allergens stuck in your strands.
Avoid sticky stylers
Some hair products, especially dense, heavier formulas, such as gel and mousse can leave a tacky finish on the hair, making it easier for pollen or other allergens to latch on—and stay put. So, if you are prone to seasonal allergies, consider switching to lightweight stylers that have thinner textures resembling lotion or water.
Wear a hat
If you’re going to be outdoors for a stretch of time while working out, gardening, or, say, watching an outdoor sporting event, create a physical barrier against pollen. Pull on a baseball cap, wide-brimmed sun hat, or tie a scarf around your head, a la Grace Kelly.
Rinse daily—preferably at day’s end
While washing your hair with shampoo every day is not advisable because it can over-strip your scalp’s natural oils and fade color, rinsing your hair with water at the end of the day will help remove allergens before you climb into your clean sheets. Note: Since it’s not practical to jump into the shower and rinse every time you come inside from the outdoors, try brushing through your hair before stepping inside to help dislodge any allergens that may be lurking in your strands.
Check your pets for pollen
If you have a dog or a cat, their hair can also collect allergens outdoors. So, to keep their hair from becoming pollen-infested (and you from becoming sneezy after snuggling them), give your pet a quick wipe-down with a damp towel or baby wipe, after they’ve been outdoors.
To create a custom Prose hair care regimen that can helps minimize allergen accumulation in your hair this spring and summer, get started here.
Comments [3]
Great tips! It occurred to me that I was probably rubbing my face in pollen on my pillow every night from my hair and a google search led me here!
We’re so glad to hear this post was helpful! Thanks for reading. 🙂
I have natural 3c hair and everyone advises not to wash or rinse it more than once a week. Or at most to co wash it every 4 days. Is there a preferred strategy for dealing with pollen and asthma for my hair type?